Sokratis Papastathopoulos could leave Arsenal at the end of the campaign, and he’s considering his options ahead of the summer, according to a report.

Italian journalist Nicolo Schira reports that Sokratis Papastathopoulos could leave Arsenal this summer. The centre-back is reportedly ‘considering his options’ after a decrease in playing opportunities under Mikel Arteta.

Schira also repeats the recent claim from Fabrizio Romano that Arsenal are looking for a new centre-back in the upcoming window.

In general, Sokratis has played regularly for Arsenal since signing in 2018. He only joined on a three-year deal though, meaning he’ll have a year left this summer.

Although concussion and illness did play a part in this, Sokratis only played four of Arteta’s first 10 league games in charge. He sat on the bench for recent fixtures against Burnley, Newcastle and Everton, only returning to the side against West Ham to play at right-back.

Even then, he only made it in because Hector Bellerin wasn’t fit to start. When it comes to appearances at centre-back, Sokratis only got one start in Arsenal’s last 10 matches in all competitions.

To sum up, it does seem likely he’ll consider his options this summer. If he’s not going to start next season, he’s 31, and unlikely to get another chance for one last big move.

If he does think he’ll play an important role, and Arsenal think the same, a contract extension is an alternative. There’s little reason for him to stick around if he’s not going to play and we’ll lose him for free in 2021.